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Prosecutor Seeks Acquittal for Ex-Drug Squad Chief at Bordeaux Trial Over 2015 Paris Cannabis Haul

Prosecutors say the evidence does not prove criminal complicity, with closing arguments set before a March 31 conclusion.

François Thierry, l'ex-patron de l'Office des stups, au palais de justice de Bordeaux le 2 mars 2026

Overview

  • The public prosecutor asked the court to acquit former Ocrtis head François Thierry, saying his criminal responsibility was not proven.
  • The state sought the maximum 20-year sentence for alleged organizer Sophiane Hambli, who is being tried in absentia and is currently detained in Morocco.
  • Prosecutors rejected the notion of complicity by omission and said Thierry committed no offense by returning an encrypted phone to the informant.
  • Investigating judges had nonetheless referred Thierry to trial for complicity in trafficking and destruction of evidence after an earlier request for dismissal.
  • Roughly 15 tonnes were seized across Paris, Ancenis and Belgium despite disputed totals, and other defendants face requested terms of up to 10 years as customs seeks a €33 million penalty against nine.